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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown

Relaxing and fun activities

Stepping away from the routine to engage in something lighthearted provides a necessary mental break.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated May 2026
01
Lumee DIY Santa Monica image 1
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Art studio with booth-style seating and spacious tables creates a cozy, colorful atmosphere. The vibe is friendly and relaxing, welcoming groups for hands-on, creative activities. Unlimited charm options add a playful, engaging element to the experience.

Creating clips here offers a very relaxing and satisfying experience. It suits groups or dates looking for a calm, hands-on activity.

Hands-on crafting with a wide selection of rainbow charms creates a fun and engaging experience. The atmosphere stays welcoming and creative, making it a great spot for DIY projects.

People are saying

"I had so much fun decorating my own phone charm and Polaroid frame."

"The staff is so kind and patient with kids."

"It's a great relaxing activity for a girls group or a date."

Good to know

1

An appointment is needed to visit Lumee DIY Santa Monica.

2

Walk-ins are okay if it's not busy.

3

They offer various items to decorate, including phone cases and notebooks.

02
Downtown Santa Monica image 1

Wide sidewalks lined with palm trees and bright storefronts create a playful, creative space filled with live street performances and ocean views. The atmosphere shifts from lively and vibrant during the day to quiet and peaceful at night. Plenty of benches and outdoor games invite relaxation amid a mix of shoppers and families.

A lively yet relaxing atmosphere blends with the close ocean views near the pier. Benches along the street invite quiet moments, while the sandy beach and bike path offer easy ways to unwind.

Walking around offers a fun way to explore. Plenty of unique stores and food spots make shopping and eating enjoyable. It stays safe and clean, welcoming for all ages without needing to spend money.

People are saying

"The beach here is beautiful, wide, and sandy."

"It's a lively yet relaxing spot with a great mix of shops and dining."

"It's a fun place for shopping, dining, and just enjoying a walk."

Good to know

1

Public Parking Structure 6 offers 99 minutes of free parking.

2

Parking is often difficult to find in Downtown Santa Monica.

3

The area is generally safe and cheerful for visitors.

03
Santa Monica Place image 1
Shopping mall

Open-air mall with modern architecture and rooftop ocean views offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music and family-friendly entertainment. Spacious design includes plenty of seating areas and shaded outdoor spaces. Unique features like the Immersion Room and rooftop dining add extra charm.

A relaxed vibe sets this spot apart from other malls. It offers a stylish and convenient place to hang out, enjoy good food, and unwind.

Outdoor mall offers a vibrant atmosphere with ocean and city views. Variety of stores and rides provide fun for both kids and adults.

People are saying

"This mall is a beautiful, large, open space."

"It's a fun place with plenty to do for the whole family."

"It's a stylish and convenient relaxing spot for shopping and food."

Good to know

1

DJ performances occur on weekends, providing live entertainment.

2

Parking is available, making access convenient for visitors.

3

Many stores are currently closed or boarded up.

04
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers cool views of water and Ferris wheel with a club-like vibe created by a live DJ and percussionist. Atmosphere suits large groups and blends beachy elegance with lively energy.

Outdoor lounge offers a charming and relaxed setting with rooftop seating that provides beautiful views and a lively yet calm vibe. The atmosphere feels polished and chill, blending Mediterranean ambiance with a West Coast feel.

Stepping inside feels like joining a celebration with an upbeat atmosphere. The spot works well for large groups and offers a fun twist on French cuisine, especially during brunch.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The staff made our celebration feel personal and special with fun activities."

"It's a relaxed vibe, perfect for a calm, comfortable meal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks, making it worthwhile.

2

Expect long wait times during busy events, like Valentine's Day.

3

The restaurant turns into a lively party after 9 pm with dancing.

05
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun atmosphere that energizes the evening. Outdoor seating features fire pits enhancing the vibe. Music volume often challenges conversation but adds to the lively environment.

Warm and comfortable atmosphere with fireplaces and relaxing live music creates a welcoming vibe. The outside patio offers a relaxed family setting perfect for enjoying a good drink or meal.

Incredible atmosphere creates a lively and classy vibe. The place offers a fun night out with a touch of elegance.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and delicious."

"The live music here really adds to the energetic vibe."

"The service here is so attentive and friendly, it makes it a truly relaxing spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

06
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel image 1

Huge, spacious building with large common areas including a patio, kitchen, and lounge. Atmosphere is generally quiet and safe, with silent hours at night and a clean, cozy feel. Guests find plenty of relaxation spots and enjoy amenities like a pool table, fireplace, and well-equipped kitchen.

A beautiful interior courtyard creates a relaxed vibe perfect for resting or working remotely. Clean facilities and a friendly atmosphere add to the calm, hacienda-like feel near the beach.

Organized events include tours, yoga, and comedy nights.** A variety of fun activities keeps the atmosphere lively and social.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are spotless and really nice."

"It's a dream location, just a short walk to the beach and shops."

"The staff's local tips made exploring the area a blast for fun activities."

Good to know

1

The hostel organizes daily activities like movie nights with free pizza and donuts.

2

Free yoga classes and comedy shows are available for all guests.

3

The location is ideal, just minutes from the Santa Monica Pier.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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